Includes bibliographical references (page 47) and index.

"Lava shoots in the air, then bubbles down mountains, flattening, burning, and boiling everything in its path. The destructive forces of volcanoes are terrifying and well-known. But what about their other forces? Volcanoes can spur new growth of plants and trees. In the water, they create an environment where coral reefs and sea life can thrive. In fact, the meeting of volcanic fire and ocean water gave way to life on Earth. Stitching science, history, and mythology together, [the author] explores these explosive wonders of nature and reveals the secrets they've been keeping since the beginning of the world"--Provided by publisher.